My first winter activity trip I normally go somewhere warm in February, but thought I would try something different this year. Reading the reviews convinced me to try this trip, and it was a very good decision.
Variety, fun and a great group A brilliant "taster" holiday with so many different activities on offer and all in beautiful deep snow. Every day offered a new experience, either as part of the programme or as an option: snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, husky-sledding, visiting a reindeer farm, building a quinzee, downhill skiing and snowmobiling. During the afternoon downtime there was the option to do more snow-shoeing, cross- country skiing, tobogganing outside or just read with a cup of tea or glass of wine or relax in the hot tub and sauna. The food was delicious and plentiful. Soft drinks were always available as part of the package and wine, beer and other drinks were available to buy along with chocolate and snacks. You will notice how frequently berries appear: in desserts, soft drinks, liqueurs and chocolate bars in shops.
This whole week felt like being in a fairytale! The scenery was absolutely breathtaking - the snowshoe hikes and cross-country skiing routes took us through the forests of Oulanka National Park with beautiful snow-covered trees, picturesque spots along the Oulanka river/rapids like a frozen waterfall, and vast frozen lakes covered in snow! We were lucky to be there during a week with very clear skies which meant lots of pink, purple and orange colours which made it feel extra magical. Because of the clear skies, we were also able to see the Northern lights on most evenings! All the activities, such as husky sledding and snowmobiling were extremely fun and took us through even more beautiful places.
We were there during the coldest week of the season (most days were between -30 and -35 degrees C) but we did not feel the cold at all (and I am someone who always suffers the cold back in the UK) because the clothes provided by Basecamp were extremely warm! I even felt too hot at some points! The accommodation was lovely, cozy and warm - there was underfloor heating which warmed up the whole room and made drying clothes very easy. There is a sauna and hot tub available for the whole group to use each afternoon/early evening which was a perfect way to wind down every evening after a day full of activities. The food was also delicious!!!! We ate very well during the whole trip and we could eat as much as we wanted which was great! All of the staff at basecamp were very friendly and helpful!